Galsworthy's story is, in part, a meditation on peoples' relationships to each other. What does he mean by saying that Mr. Nilson was "visited somehow by the feeling that he had been caught out"? Why is this statement important?

How does the author impart to readers that Mr. Nilson is a financially well-off man? Do you think that it is harder for wealthy people than others to appreciate beauty? What might some of Galsworthy's reasons be for suggesting so?

The story ends with Mr. Nilson "unaccountably upset." Speculate on the reasons for this feeling. Imagine the rest of Mr. Nilson's day-do you think he will give any more thought to the blackbird or the quince tree?

Consider the extent to which spontaneity is encouraged or valued in society. On what occasions might you have wished to give yourself over more fully to...